Three arrested in Hardwick on drug charges

EAST BROOKFIELD — Two Hardwick men were arrested early Saturday when police found heroin after stopping their car because a taillight was out.

In a related sting, a third man was arrested when he allegedly showed up to purchase cocaine from an undercover officer, didn't have enough money and tried to trade prescription pills instead, police said.

Corey Stolgitis, 19, of 437 Fiske Rd., Hardwick, was stopped about 1:30 a.m. Saturday. There was a warrant for his arrest and when police found heroin and other drugs inside the car and in the cruiser where he'd been sitting, he was also charged with drug offenses, a report said.

A passenger in the car, Michael Zepp, 27, of 940 North Rd., Hardwick, was arrested when police found a packet of heroin at his feet. Police also found needles, a report said.

As officers from Hardwick and Ware investigated the case, they learned Mr. Stolgitis was allegedly selling drugs. Later that day an undercover officer arranged to meet one of his alleged customers who wanted to buy cocaine.

Robert Chaffee, 23, of 7 Second Ave., Ware, allegedly met the officer but brought only $20 and tried to trade 2 Suboxone pills and the cash for cocaine, the police report said. After the exchange, Mr. Chaffee allegedly said he remembered the undercover officer.

Lawyer Donald Stolgitis represented his son, Corey, who did not appear in Western Worcester District Court in East Brookfield for arraignment Tuesday on drug possession and distribution charges along with motor vehicle violations. He said his son had checked into a rehabilitation facility, and the case was continued to June 6 for arraignment.

Mr. Chaffee was charged with possession of cocaine, possession of a Class B drug with intent to distribute and conspiracy to violate the drug laws. He is due back in court May 1.

Mr. Zepp was charged with possession of heroin, possession of a Class B drug, conspiracy to violate the drug laws and carrying a dangerous weapon (spring-loaded knife). He is due back in court June 17.

Contact Kim Ring at kim.ring@telegram.com. Follow her on Twitter @kimmring